Hampden

Travel Guide

Moeraki Boulders which includes a beach as well as a small group of people
Hampden showing a sunset and a lake or waterhole
Moeraki Boulders showing rugged coastline as well as a large group of people
Oamaru featuring rugged coastline, a sandy beach and a sunset
Moeraki Boulders
Rare Hector’s dolphins native to this part of New Zealand bring visitors to an enchanting town’s fish-and-chips shop, antique store and beach.

To experience some of New Zealand’s richest traditions and an idyllic spot for an oceanside meal of fish-and-chips, visit Hampden. The town’s gorgeous beach is close to the iconic Moeraki Boulders and is backed by the South Island’s characteristic leafy hills. Embark on a pleasant stroll along the trails, with excellent views of the Pacific Ocean.

Bring a pair of binoculars to pick out a flurry of Hector’s dolphins, as they surface for air. These majestic creatures are found only off the shores of New Zealand and are known for being particularly small and rare.

Sunbathe on gorgeous Hampden Beach and splash around in the water. Walk out at low tide toward the Moeraki Boulders Beach on the headland to the south. This spectacular landmark is dotted with round stones that are entwined with Maori legends.

Back at Hampden Beach, play tennis on the courts and rush up and down the ramps of the skatepark. Enjoy a picnic on the grassy field beside the courts and head into the town center, where you’ll find a fish-and-chips shop and an ice cream parlor. Browse the intriguing items for sale in the Hampden Stores Collectables antiques shop.

Embark on the Heritage Trail to see some of the town’s historic landmarks, including Hampden Square, the Hampden Presbyterian Church and the Hampden Hotel. You can also stay overnight in the quaint red barns of the Hampden Camping Ground.

Lining the North Otago Coast, the Hampden is located in the southeastern corner of New Zealand’s South Island. From Dunedin, drive north for 50 miles (80 kilometers). You can also arrive from the nearby town of Oamaru, just 20 miles (33 kilometers) north. Travel around the area by bus.

Oamaru Motor Lodge
Oamaru Motor Lodge
4 out of 5
391 Thames Highway, Oamaru
$97 nightly
The price is $112 total per night from Jul 13 to Jul 14
$112 total
Jul 13 - Jul 14
Total includes taxes and fees
Stay at this 4-star business-friendly motel in Oamaru. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and a free airport shuttle. Our guests praise the helpful staff ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (676 reviews)
"Nice decor, clean and new. The kitchenette was nice. Will need to have a car or Uber to see attractions. The clerk gave a great recommendation for dinner and hints on wear to look for penguins."

Reviewed on Jul 11, 2025

Oamaru Motor Lodge
Poshtel
Poshtel
5 out of 5
126 Thames Street, Oamaru, Otago
$89 nightly
The price is $103 total per night from Aug 12 to Aug 13
$103 total
Aug 12 - Aug 13
Total includes taxes and fees
Stay at this 5-star luxury lodge in Oamaru. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and daily housekeeping. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (307 reviews)
Very cool hotel!!
"This hotel was SO cool!! The old building had been transformed in to such a unique hotel. Undoubtedly the most unique place my wife and I have ever stayed!! Recommend it highly!!"

Reviewed on Jul 1, 2025

Poshtel
Heritage Court Lodge
Heritage Court Lodge
4 out of 5
346 Thames Highway, Oamaru
Stay at this 4-star eco-certified motel in Oamaru. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (363 reviews)
"Location is good and close to town."

Reviewed on Jul 3, 2025

Heritage Court Lodge
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
The Pink Pipi Karitane
The Pink Pipi Karitane
Karitane
Stay at this vacation home in Karitane. Enjoy free WiFi, laundry facilities, and patios.
9/10 Wonderful! (141 reviews)
"Lovely location in a gorgeous part of the country. Wild weather added to the charm Thankyou"

Reviewed on Jun 9, 2025

The Pink Pipi Karitane
Coastal Rural Haven with mind blowing Sea Views! 10 minutes South of Moeraki.
Coastal Rural Haven with mind blowing Sea Views! 10 minutes South of Moeraki.
Shag Point
Stay at this vacation home in Shag Point. Enjoy a garden, laundry facilities, and housekeeping. Popular attractions Shag Point Scenic Reserve and Moeraki Lighthouse ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (12 reviews)
Retreat
"Amazing location wish we had more time to explore locallyDefinitely will be back Need to add detail of highway turnoff location"

Reviewed on Jul 6, 2025

Coastal Rural Haven with mind blowing Sea Views! 10 minutes South of Moeraki.
Teschemakers Resort
Teschemakers Resort
3 out of 5
296 Teschemakers Rd, Teschemakers, Otago
Stay at this 3-star aparthotel in Teschemakers. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and breakfast (surcharge). Popular attractions Totara Estate and Totara Estate ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (5 reviews)
Fun family experience
"It was a great experience for the family to stay in this historic property. The church is spectacular. No food onsite so keep that in mind."

Reviewed on Mar 26, 2025

Teschemakers Resort
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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